Cell data investigation: How we did it

Jun. 10, 2014
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Local police are increasingly able to scoop up large amounts of cellphone data using new technologies, including cell tower dumps and secret mobile devices known as Stingrays. Hereā??s a closer look at how police do it. / Jerry Mosemak

by USA TODAY

by USA TODAY

This story is a collaborative effort of USA TODAY and Gannett newspapers and TV stations across the country.

More than 50 investigative journalists requested public records from local and state police agencies in their communities, seeking records that might shed light on capabilities of civilian police to gather data from people's cellphones.

Records obtained from police agencies, as well as additional records from online databases of contracts and government proceedings, were gathered to paint a broad picture of the state of cellphone surveillance by police. Many agencies denied records requests.

Gannett newspapers and TV stations are reporting additional details about local agencies.